The River and the Source Lesson Plan

How do the Luo people traditionally name their babies? What is Akono's full name? Why is Akono an appropriate name for the character?

The first name babies are given is based on the season in which they were born. It is also customary for ancestors to send dreams to living family members to stake their interest in the baby. Gender does not come into play; girls are frequently named after a man and vice versa. Lastly, babies are generally given a praise name, either in memory of one of their namesakes or to call attention to the child's personality.

Akono's full name is Adoyo Obanda Akelo Akono. Adoyo after the season she was born in, Obanda and Akelo after a great...